Project Leader: Chris Morales

Project Design Leader: Aum Gandhi

Project Team Members: Cherie Woo, Joceline Pereira, Robert Aguilar, Tony Zavala, Michael Calcanas.

Project Status: Prototype complete

 

Traditional Ebb and Flow Hydroponics: We are implementing a traditional ebb and flow hydroponics prototype system setup in the Environmental Lab. This system will have multiple tanks/tubs to test different “soil” mediums for its effectiveness in growing in enclosed spaces with little maintenance. Currently, we are testing lettuce because of its short grow period. One the system is up and running, we plan on measuring the nutrition values and pH at set intervals.  If the system is a success, we will choose the best soil medium and move forward on a larger scale system.

 

Creating an Automated System:  We are building our own custom “automation system.” This system will have a hydroponics system inside an insulated enclosure with various sensors to detect humidity, pH, and nutrient levels. The system will be able to automatically adjust the levels of each variable until they reach the desired amount.  During extreme situations, such as power failure or a clogged pump, the system will send an alert via text and tweet about its status. At the moment, we are currently programming the electronics and hope to have a working sensor system by fall semester.